As a local, there’s nothing quite like seeing Canberra on screen.

Whether it’s a spot in your neighbourhood, a cultural institution or our bushland, Canberra has been a backdrop to several films and television shows.

Here are some of the locations that have been featured on screen:

The Hyatt Hotel Canberra

This is one of many Canberra locations used to film the ABC comedy series, Austin. The Hyatt is a regular feature and appears as the ‘Canberra Hotel’ in the show.

Some of the other Canberra locations that were used for filming include:

• Book Lore and The Front in Lyneham

• The Marion

• The National Library of Australia

• Rebel Rebel.

Read our full list of real-life Canberra locations from Austin.

Constitution Avenue

Blacklight is an action film starring Liam Neeson and set in Washington DC. During 2021, an action scene was filmed on the streets of Canberra. Despite being edited to look as though the scene took place in DC, Canberra residents will recognise some familiar scenery.

Notable locations include:

• the underground carpark at the National Gallery of Australia

• Glebe Park and the surrounding area.

The Parliamentary Triangle

The political thriller television series Secret City was filmed inside of Parliament House. You’ll see the prime minister's office, the Press Gallery, and the building's exterior to name a few.

Some other Canberra locations you’ll spot include:

• Commonwealth Avenue Bridge

• Lake Burley Griffin

• Australian National University

• Ovolo Canberra

• The National Gallery of Australia.

Other TV shows and films that feature Parliament House include:

• The Code

• Total Control

• The Hollowmen.

Kambah Inn

Somersault is a 2004 drama film starring Abbie Cornish and Sam Worthington. Most of the film is set in Jindabyne, but some of it was filmed in Canberra. Kambah Inn is featured, and some Canberrans will recognise the old Belconnen Interchange.

The High Court of Australia

Mabo tells the life story of Eddie ‘Koiki’ Mabo and his part in the landmark case that overturned the doctrine of terra nullius. It starts Jimi Bani and Deborah Mailman and The High Court of Australia is visible in the film.

The High Court of Australia also featured briefly in film The Castle. It is the setting for Darryl Kerrigan’s (played by Michael Caton) legal battle to protect his family home.

Gungahlin Skate Park

Skate parks and Kingsley’s Chicken are two of Canberra’s most popular locations for teenagers. It’s fitting that they are featured in the 2013 film Galore. The film is set in suburban Canberra and tells the story of a group of teenagers in the lead up to the 2003 bushfires. Scrivener Dam is also visible in part of the film.

Black Mountain Tower

Blue World Order is a 2017 film directed by Ché Baker and Dallas Bland. It’s set in a post-apocalyptic world and stars Titanic actor Billy Zane. There is even a cameo from ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr.

The iconic Black Mountain Tower is visible in the film. Scenes were also shot at the Australian National University and Wee Jasper Caves.

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